Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi holds Linguistic Lecture for Francophiles

Abu Dhabi, 25 January 2012 - As part of its efforts to highlight the importance of dialogue between cultures, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi hosted a Linguistic Lecture delivered by Olivier Bertrand, President of the Language and Cultures Department, Ecole Polytechnique, Paris, on 24 January 2012. Featuring the significant role of Arabic words in the French language, the lecture, and the reception thereafter, was attended by students, alumni, faculty and the general public.

The lecture revealed the invaluable role of Arabic in human sciences as well as the scientific linguistic loans. Also reviewed were major translations from Arabic into French in subjects like chemistry, mathematics, and medicine together with distinctive lexical inputs in botany, commerce, colours and zoology. French words like sucre, giraffe, magazine derived from the Arabic words for Sugar (Sukkar), Giraffe(zarafa), and store (makhzan).  The lecture analysed the ways in which Arabic enriched the French language with vital contributions and how both the cultures are intertwined. French words borrowed from Arabic are numerous representing several eras of contact, the most prominent being the medieval age, primarily from the 7th to the 15th century. The lecture also covered Arabic was responsible in nurturing and having a considerable influence on other languages like Persian from which numerous neologisms in French were derived between the 16th and the 20th century. 

Prof. Dr. Jean Yves de Cara, Executive Director of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, "The Linguistic Lecture provided compelling insights into the dynamics of the Arabic language in enriching the French vocabulary. Both, Arabic and French are considerably impressive and influential cultural languages and, as a French academic institution in the Middle East, we constantly seek opportunities for our students to refine their understanding of the cultural and linguistic dimensions and developments between these two cultures."

Ahmad Adnan Ali, an undergraduate student of French and Comparative Literature -the department which organized this lecture- said, "Attending the lecture was immensely insightful experience that has honed my appreciation of both languages. As a bilingual student, I can now certainly better relate to both Arabic and French with a cultural and a commercial perspective that will ultimately benefit my career."

Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi offers a wide range of language programmes including a Master degree in Teaching French for Arab speakers and Bachelors' degree in French and Comparative Literature as well as an Intensive French Programme. In February, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi will commence its Intensive French Course in the evening designed specifically for working professionals to refine their French language skills.

As an integral part of the Abu Dhabi's Vision 2030 to create a knowledge-based economy Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is committed to delivering the future Emirati and international workforce by providing globally acclaimed French education that will contribute to UAE's economic diversification. The French education system is known for its high level of rigorous and critical thinking, the sense of synthesis and debating skills. To enhance the value of its academic programmes, as well as to engage its students and the community, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi frequently organises lectures, debates and seminars throughout the year, hosting renowned regional and international experts to offer substantial insight on key aspects and phenomena across a spectrum of fields.

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About Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi   www.sorbonne.ae
Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is a prestigious higher education institution that offers both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Social Science and Art, Law and Economics, and Business Management disciplines. Located on Al-Reem Island, Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi offers a world-class diploma, Sorbonne education in Abu Dhabi, with degrees granted by Paris that are globally recognized. The courses are exclusively delivered by lecturers from Paris following the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

Established in May 2006, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) and Paris-Sorbonne University, Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi combines the legacy and experience of two significant and legendary French universities - Paris-Sorbonne University, dedicated to arts and humanities, and Paris-Descartes University, specialized in Law, Political Science and Economics.

At present, more than 650 students from over 60 countries are enrolled at Paris Sorbonne Abu Dhabi for the new academic year 2011-2012.

For further Information, please contact:
Maysoon Baber, Public Relations
Tel: (+971) 2 656 9555/ Dir 9562 / 9560
GSM: (+971) 50 699 9825
Maysoon.Barber@PSUAD.AC.AE
www.sorbonne.ae

© Press Release 2012